ABSTRACT
In earlier chapters the emphasis has been on interiors with a host of historic, aged textiles that collectively produce a particular ambience in houses open to the public. The many manifestations of age produce a harmonious effect even in interiors that are layered with objects from different periods. Curators and conservators care for the textiles that have been retained and preserved by their owners and now the furnishings repose in interiors that avoid jarring elements that would alert us to the changes and interventions that have occurred over time. Even the subdued lighting required for the preservation of historic textiles adds to the atmosphere and the muted tones. Unfortunately, many visitors move through the rooms hardly noticing the contents in detail. Although historic houses offer a context for their contents they also often prevent the visitor examining individual objects in detail due to security barriers and lighting levels. Even when visitors stop to ask questions or read the literature provided it is usually the case that they are only told the obvious information of what an object is, when and where it was made, the materials used and the makers name if known. This treats the objects as antiques rather than as aspects of the material culture of the house.
